Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has tasked members of the Joint Task Force South South, alias Operation Delta Safe, to intensify the fight against oil theft and illegal refineries in the state, describing those involved as enemies of the state.
The governor stated this, yesterday, while addressing a delegation of the Sector Commanders of the Joint Task Force Team charged with securing oil and gas operations in South East, South South and South West states.
He condemned the activities of illegal refiners in Abia, warning that they would face legal prosecution if caught. He assured the task force that his government does not support any illegality, promising to give the team all the support to carry out their assignment.
He specially charged the task force to protect and secure the Abia Innovation and Industrial Park (AIIP) at Owaza, in Ukwa West Local Council, pledging to provide the logistics and intelligence that would facilitate their assignment.
The Joint Task Force Commander, Rear Admiral John Okeke, told the governor that his team was in Abia to familiarise with Abia State as one of its coverage areas in the fight against oil theft and illegal refineries.
